Celebrating the Harlem Renaissance at the Tucson Desert Song Festival
The vibrant spirit of the Harlem Renaissance is alive and well at the ongoing Tucson Desert Song Festival, where various artists are revisiting the contributions of African-American composers. Among them, Grammy-winning baritone Will Liverman took center stage last Tuesday, spotlighting the works of these influential figures, particularly Margaret Bonds. His performance, hosted by True Concord Voices & Orchestra, encapsulated the essence of this pivotal cultural movement.
Spotlight on Fats Waller and Jazz
Another insightful representation of the Harlem Renaissance emerges from the Arizona Theatre Company’s production of “Ain’t Misbehavin'”. This lively show, running through February 14 at the Temple of Music and Art, explores the world of jazz through the lens of Fats Waller, one of the era’s most significant innovators. The upbeat rhythms and poignant lyrics connect audiences to the rich musical heritage shaped during this transformative period in American history.
Deep Dive into African-American Music
Arguably, no group at the festival is delving as profoundly into this cultural moment as the Miró Quartet alongside soprano Karen Slack. Their collaboration is not just a tribute; it is an exploration of the Harlem Renaissance’s enduring impact on contemporary music. On January 28, they will perform a concert featuring the world premiere of a new song cycle commissioned by Arizona Friends of Chamber Music, which focuses on the works of five notable 20th-century African-American composers, including Bonds and William Grant Still, both key figures of the Renaissance.
The concert program is anchored by the much-anticipated debut of Brooklyn composer Tamar-kali’s song cycle “Pleasure Garden.” This new work promises to be a critical link between the past and present, showcasing how the legacies of the Harlem Renaissance resonate in modern musical landscapes.
Insights from the Performers
John Largess, the violist for the Miró Quartet, expressed enthusiasm for Tamar-kali’s unique musical voice. He elaborates on how the project has been in the works since 2020, addressing themes of womanhood and the Harlem Renaissance’s influence. The anticipation surrounding this concert is palpable, highlighted by collaborative efforts that aim to breathe new life into compositions by legendary figures such as Florence Price and Margaret Bonds, both of whom have been pivotal in shaping the classical music narrative for African-American women.
Slack, who recently won a Grammy for her collaboration on unpublished songs of Florence Price, has worked alongside the Miró Quartet in various concerts focusing on these significant composers. Their combined efforts over the past five years have fostered a rich tapestry of musical exploration, evidencing a dedication to amplifying the voices of African-American composers.
The Premiere of “Pleasure Garden”
As Tamar-kali’s new piece nears its premiere, rehearsals are set to commence in Tucson, where creative discussions will take place with the composer. Largess is eager to glean insights from Tamar-kali to shape the nuances of the performance, underscoring an eagerness to make this work a centerpiece of the evening.
The anticipation reflects not only a reverence for the past but also a commitment to presenting the evolution of African-American music in a contemporary context. Largess asserts that Tamara-kali’s work represents a bridge to the Harlem Renaissance, illustrating its lasting impact on the cultural fabric of America.
Musical Highlights of the Concert
The concert will also showcase a repertoire that includes Largess’s arrangement of William Grant Still’s “Songs of Separation,” George Walker’s “Lyric for Strings,” and works from both Price and Bonds. This diverse program provides a robust insight into the contributions of African-American composers, demonstrating their pivotal roles in shaping American music across generations.
Event Details
For those interested in experiencing this innovative concert, the world premiere of Tamar-kali’s “Pleasure Garden” will take place at 7:30 p.m. on January 28, 2023, at the Leo Rich Theater in Tucson. Tickets are available online, with student discounts offered to encourage a broader audience engagement.
In addition to this concert, the festival features a variety of events, including a recital by the Tucson Guitar Society and performances of “Ain’t Misbehavin'” by Arizona Theatre Company. This rich programming showcases the vibrant musical landscape of Tucson, connecting audiences with diverse narratives through the power of song.